Getting assessed for dementia

Question: What doctor can I go to for evaluation of my husband’s dementia? Is there any treatment? He is up at night and sleeps all day and is after me, the wife and caretaker about 5 times a night. I am exhausted from dealing. He does not talk ---just goes from the chair to the bed. I care about him, but feel I am going crazy with his care. His family does not help in any way except to ask for money.

Dr. Amy: I suggest you ask your family doctor for a referral for a thorough assessment for dementia. While today there is no cure, there are behavioural and drug therapies that can help. It is quite common among people suffering from dementia to get their days and nights mixed up, and there are treatments that can help with this.

Getting your husband’s sleep patterns under control will help with your exhaustion. At the same time, you need emotional support for yourself. You may find it helpful to join a dementia support group, and you can find one through the Alzheimer’s Association.